The Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Obiri Boahene has said any individual who files as an independent candidate automatically ceases to be a member of the party
This comes after a number of party officials and an elected constituency organizer of Asokwa, Eric Osei publically campaigned and filed forms to be identified as independent candidates.
President Akufo-Addo has subsequently sent out a caution to persons who have withdrawn from the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and have filed as independent Parliamentary candidates for the upcoming general elections.
Addressing the people of the Ahafo Ano constituencies in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, the President stressed that his work as President requires support and unflinching loyalty from the people he works with.
In his opinion, owing to their break-away from the Party, independent candidates cannot fully commit themselves to the mandate of the party.
In addition, individuals who go contrary to the party’s principles and rules show they are not genuine party members and have no love for the NPP and for that matter, he cannot work with independent candidates.
His comments come after a member of the Party, Kwabena Osei Bonsu filed as an independent candidate in the Ahafo Ano North constituency.
According to the President, Mr Bonsu declined an invitation from him to the Jubilee House to address his concerns.
“Anybody who stands as an independent candidate is not a devoted supporter of the NPP, especially when I have called on you and you refused to honour my invitation that means you have no respect for me and I can’t work with people who have no respect for me,” he said.
The President also called on residents of the area to vote massively for the current MP adding that, Mr. Sanid Suleman Adamu is someone he can comfortably work with.
The Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party said it is unfortunate to see what is unfolding within the party notwithstanding the advice given to party members.